What tests are used to screen hearing in preschool-aged children?

• A. CT scan of the temporal bone.
• B. Behavioral audiometry (pure-tone) and/or age-appropriate screening tests; tympanometry as indicated.
• C. Vision testing.
• D. Otoscopy alone.

Answer: (B)

Screening hearing in preschoolers relies on tests the child can actually participate in, using methods suited to developmental level. Behavioral audiometry, such as conditioned play or other age-appropriate screening techniques, is used to estimate hearing thresholds in this age group. Tympanometry is added as indicated because middle-ear problems—common in young children—can affect hearing, and tympanometry provides an objective check of middle-ear function. CT imaging of the temporal bone is not used for routine screening, vision testing does not assess hearing, and otoscopy alone cannot determine hearing ability. So the combination of behavioral/age-appropriate testing with tympanometry as indicated best screens hearing in preschool-aged children.